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2012 International Day of the Girl Child

International Day of the Girl Child | End Child Marriage

October 11th is a particularly significant day for the East Asia and Pacific Regional and South Asia Regional UN Girls’ Education Initiative (EAP/SA UNGEI). The inauguration of International Day of the Girl Child solidifies our global commitment to ensuring equality for girls, not only in education, but in all aspects of life. The ‘girl child ‘specifically refers to those under the age of 18, who often face unique challenges compared to boys and compared to women. On this day, we are reminded that all girls are entitled to human rights, equal treatment and equal opportunities including the right to complete a full cycle of basic education. However, to realize equitable conditions for girls in society, obstacles, such as gender-based violence, child labour, deep-seated prejudices, discrimination and child marriage must be faced. This year’s theme for International Day of the Girl Child focuses on the detrimental effects of child marriage and the need to put an end to this practice.

The EAP/SA UNGEI are pleased to commemorate this Day through various initiatives which we invite you to learn more about here:

Furthermore, the East Asia and Pacific Regional UNGEI network is pleased to join Plan Thailand in launching their latest report on girls and education as part of the Because I am a Girl Campaign. Plan Thailand and EAP UNGEI co-host a high-level event in Bangkok on 11 Octoberto mark International Day of the Girl Child as well as launch the 2012 ‘Because I am a Girl’ report. More on the event will be uploaded here soon. Stay tuned!